Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine footballer and global superstar, has made a quiet yet significant return to his homeland, Argentina.

Accompanied by his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their three children, Mateo, Thiago, and Ciro, Messi left the United States on the night of December 17.

The family’s journey back to Argentina comes just before the end of the year, a time traditionally spent with loved ones.

While Messi is scheduled to return to Inter Miami in early January 2024, his current visit to Argentina is marked by a combination of family celebrations and personal commitments.

The Messi family’s private jet, a Gulfstream V registered under the code LV-IRQ, touched down at Rosario Airport at precisely 8:10 p.m.

The flight had a multi-leg journey, originating from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with a stop in Punta del Este before continuing to San Fernando, Buenos Aires, and finally arriving in Rosario.

Despite the quiet nature of their arrival, the news of Messi’s return spread rapidly, sparking excitement among fans and media outlets alike.

Messi’s return to Rosario, however, is not solely tied to the holiday season.

According to reports from Argentine media outlet Ole, the main reason for his visit is to attend a significant family event—the wedding of Antonela Roccuzzo’s youngest sister, Carla.

The wedding, scheduled for December 23, is expected to be a grand occasion filled with emotional moments and cherished family traditions.

Messi and Antonela’s attendance has been confirmed, and the event will see Antonela playing a pivotal role.

She will be walking Carla down the aisle, a gesture that holds deep sentimental value within the family.

This role is particularly meaningful, as Carla had performed the same duty at Messi and Antonela’s wedding back in 2017.

For Messi, attending a family wedding is a rare opportunity.

Over the years, his demanding schedule as a professional footballer has often kept him away from personal milestones and celebrations.

However, with Carla’s wedding coinciding with the off-season for Inter Miami, Messi has been able to carve out time to be present for this special occasion.

This highlights not only his dedication to his family but also his ability to balance his personal and professional life.

The anticipation surrounding the wedding has added to the excitement of Messi’s return to Argentina.

Fans in Rosario, a city that holds a special place in Messi’s heart, were quick to gather near the airport and other locations in hopes of catching a glimpse of their hero.

Messi, who is revered as a national treasure in Argentina, has always maintained a strong connection to his roots, despite his global fame.

The wedding itself is expected to be a lavish affair, attended by close family members and friends.

Carla Roccuzzo, the youngest of the Roccuzzo sisters, shares a close bond with both Antonela and Messi.

Her decision to include Antonela in such an important role underscores the deep familial ties that bind the Roccuzzo family.

Messi’s presence at the wedding is not just a personal commitment but also a testament to the importance he places on family values.

In addition to the wedding, Messi’s time in Rosario is likely to include other family gatherings and celebrations.

The festive season provides the perfect backdrop for such reunions, allowing the Messi family to cherish moments of togetherness.

Messi has always valued these occasions, as evidenced by his attendance at other family events in the past, such as his niece’s 15th birthday celebration.

These moments not only strengthen family bonds but also offer Messi a chance to step away from the pressures of professional football.

Messi’s return to Argentina also serves as a reminder of his enduring connection to his hometown of Rosario.

Despite achieving unparalleled success on the global stage, he has never forgotten his roots.

Rosario holds a special place in Messi’s heart, not just as the city where he was born and raised, but also as a place where he finds solace and a sense of belonging.

Over the years, Messi has contributed to various charitable causes in Argentina, further solidifying his status as a beloved figure in his home country.

His humility and willingness to give back to the community have earned him admiration far beyond his achievements on the football field.

As the year draws to a close, Messi’s focus on family and personal milestones offers a glimpse into the values that have shaped his journey.

While his accomplishments on the pitch continue to inspire millions around the world, it is his dedication to his loved ones that truly defines him as a person.

The upcoming wedding of Carla Roccuzzo is not just a celebration for the Roccuzzo family but also a reflection of the strong bonds that keep Messi grounded.

As fans eagerly await Messi’s return to action with Inter Miami in January 2024, his time in Argentina provides a rare opportunity to see the personal side of the football legend.

For now, the focus is on family, festivities, and the joy of being home.

Messi’s presence at Carla’s wedding will undoubtedly be a cherished memory for all those involved, marking the end of the year on a high note.

It is a reminder that, despite his global fame, Messi remains deeply connected to his family and his roots, embodying the values that have made him not just a great athlete but also a remarkable human being.